Turquoise has been a highly popular semi-precious gem to many societies from the Egyptians to the Aztecs since ancient times. Turquoise is a very porous material, so heat, light, oils, and chemicals can have a negative effect on the stones color and luster. Turquoise is most popular in southwestern fashions. Use turquoise beads with sterling silver beads and charms, and heishi shells.

Hair pipes are long tubular beads that have been integral in many Native American adornments since prehistoric times. The origin of the name hair pipe is obscure at best. Hair pipe beads became a very popular trade bead amongst traders, and mass quantities were produced by wampum manufacturers. Shell hair pipe beads were even carried by the Lewis and Clark expedition.